The gaming industry, which has long dominated the entertainment sector with its $189 billion market, is showing signs of stagnation. In contrast, web-based games are experiencing an unexpected revival. Titles such as GeoGuessr and chess have garnered substantial attention, with sales expected to triple from 2021 to 2028, reaching an estimated $3.09 billion. Platforms like Playgama have played a key role in this growth, hosting over 15,000 new web games in the first half of 2025 alone, surpassing the combined total from the previous three years.
This trend is attributed to the convenience of web-based games, which offer fast and easy access without the need for console boot-ups or app downloads. Additionally, creators benefit from avoiding the 30% revenue cuts imposed by platforms like Steam and Apple. The potential for higher earnings is evident, as a top-ten developer on such platforms now earns about $1 million annually, up from $50,000 in 2020. With the cost of consoles exceeding $450 and smartphone users downloading fewer apps, the rise of web-based games seems poised to shape the future of the gaming landscape.